Library News
Thank you for your patience as we help ODH distribute tests in our community. Covid tests are currently not in stock. We expect a shipment in the next few weeks and will update this post when they are received.
When does the library receive tests?
Tests are provided through Ohio Department of Health. We order tests as our supplies run out, but do not get any delivery information; we never know when the next order will arrive until the tests actually show up.
How do I know when the library has tests available?
Go to www.kentfreelibrary.org and look for the first article under Library News below the slider image. The article heading will note if tests are in stock or out of stock. Due to the high volume of Covid-test related phone calls, we appreciate that you do not call.
If the library doesn’t have tests, who does?
Other libraries in the area, including Reed Memorial in Ravenna and the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library also receive rapid tests, as do the Portage County Health District and the Kent Health Department. These locations don’t always have tests in stock; when they receive a shipment, they are all distributed within hours. It is best to check their website or Facebook page for updates regarding availability.
While testing supply chains are challenged, over-the-counter rapid testing kits can still be purchased at many locations, such as pharmacies and grocery stores, and some insurance plans cover the cost, including Medicare and Medicaid. You can request free tests to be shipped to your home from the United States Postal Service. Testing is also available at many urgent care locations, community health centers, retail locations, and pop-up sites. The ODH website features a searchable map of testing locations.
When tests are available, how do I pick them up?
Tests may only be picked up at the drive-through window. Tests may not be reserved. Please wear a mask when picking up tests. Do not come into the library.
How many tests can I get?
The ODH has instructed locations to limit to no more than two tests at a time; each OTC kit includes 2 tests, so you will receive one box.
How do I take the test?
The tests currently available are un-proctored/over-the-counter (OTC) tests. OTC tests:
- Do not require a telehealth session; they are conducted at home and are for personal use.
- Do not produce a documented result that can be used for travel, to return or stay in school, or be released from quarantine in Ohio.
- May include TWO tests per test kit.
Who can help me if I have questions?
Library staff are not trained medical professionals and not permitted to assist with medical procedures or give medical advice, and so are not able to assist with these tests. The test kit contains directions. For further questions about COVID testing, contact your doctor or pharmacy.
The expiration date on my test has passed–is it still good?
The manufacturer has extended the expiration date of BinaxNOW Home Tests by an additional 90 days. Using the lot number on the outside of the box the test comes in, you can find the new extended expiration date here.
How do I get a vaccine or a booster?
COVID-19 vaccines are widely available throughout the state. Many providers offer walk-in appointments, or Ohioans can schedule a vaccination appointment at gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov. Ohioans who want to learn more about the safety, efficacy, and side effects of COVID-19 vaccines should talk to their doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, or visit coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine to learn more.
Local author Chas Madonio talks about his book Bars, Bands and Rock n’ Roll: The Golden Era in Kent, Ohio on Thursday, April 6. Chas recounts his experiences in and around the music scene of Kent in the ’60s and ’70s, including his time in a band with Joe Walsh. Copies of his book will be for sale after the program and Chas will be available to sign.
Co-sponsored by the Kent Historical Society.
No registration required. For Adults 18+.
Bringing their own interpretations of jazz classics and “jazzing up” their renditions of blues and rock tunes, QS Jazz has been captivating audiences across Northeast Ohio for over ten years. Enjoy listening to the guitar stylings and vocals of Don Goodman, Mark Tobik on bass and vocals, Jeremy Sullivan on drums, Xavier Ali on trombone and vocals, and lead singer Saam Cabot on vocals, flute, and saxophone. The concert will be held on the Library’s second floor balcony. No registration required. All ages are welcome.
The Concert Series is generously supported by the Friends of Kent Free Library.
Theresa Nielsen, Deputy Director of the Portage County Board of Elections, presents a free and open program about recent changes to election law.In January, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed a sweeping package of election changes into law, including the state’s first photo ID voting requirement. Other changes shrink the window for mail-in ballots to be counted and for curing provisional ballots, eliminating one day of early voting, eliminating most August special elections, and restricting curbside voting. Learn what you need to do to ensure that you are able to vote in the upcoming election.
No registration required. For ages 17+.
Co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Kent, Portage County NAACP, Kent State Votes, Kent Lions, Brimfield Lions, and Kent Environmental Council.
Come to this new Genealogy Club, co-sponsored by the Kent Historical Society and the Kent Free Library. The club will meet the 4th Tuesday of each month with speakers, special guests, and time for sharing your own research. In the March program, share your recent research experiences and your “best discovery ever.” No registration required. For adults 18+.
It’s a night for checkers and chess for adults! Learn how to play chess if you never have played. Refresh your checkers skills. Registration is required and begins on Thursday, March 9. For adults 18+
The Seed Library opens on Thursday, March 16. Now in its 8th year, the Seed Library makes hundreds of different seeds available to community members at no cost. If you have a good harvest, bring some seeds back to help replenish the collection for the next year.
This year, about ten local gardeners donated seeds from last year’s crop. Additional seeds were donated by High Mowing Organic Seeds, Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds, Hudson Valley Company, Peaceful Valley Farm and Garden Supply, and Seed Savers Exchange.
Seed enthusiasts, including members of the Kent Garden Club, Portage County Master Gardeners, and students from Kent State University, met last month to repackage all of the donated seeds.
“We have about 1,500 seed packets this year,” says project manager Kristen Pool. “That includes over 20 different varieties of tomatoes and 6 varieties of sunflowers, among many other garden favorites and some more unique options, like Asian greens–and yes, we do have the famous Hobbs Goose Beans this year!” she adds.
Browse the Seed Library, which is housed in a repurposed card catalog near the first floor Information Desk, or see what’s available in the Growing Guide, which will be available online March 16. Check out up to 20 packets per season, no more than 2 packets of any variety. Fill out a Check Out form so we can keep track of how many packets go out. Seed packets are available first come, first served, and varieties are limited, depending on how many were donated.
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Giving out seed packets is a great service; but it’s not the only reason we are proud of our Seed Library,” Kristen says, adding that “the Seed Library also encourages the tradition of seed saving, nurturing locally-adapted plant varieties, and fostering a community culture of sharing.”
“Last week, I met someone who said that she got seeds from the Seed Library the very first year she tried gardening,” Kristen says. “She is now an avid gardener and a member of Portage County Master Gardeners, and I’m so happy that the Seed Library played a role in helping her discover the joy and magic of growing plants.”
Marcum’s Martial Arts Academy will be leading a beginners Tai Chi session here at Kent Free Library. Tai Chi is a flow of gentle exercises and stretches to connect the mind and body. Registration required and begins February 27 at 9:00 am. For adults 18+.
Enjoy listening to Grady Miller, an Americana and Blues duo based out of Akron. Cathy Grady (formerly Miller) is a songwriter, vocalist, and fiddler, with a wide range of styles and influences. Michael Grady is a guitarist and an award winning songwriter with lyrics that are timely, funny, and engaging. No registration required. All ages are welcome. The concert will be held on the second floor balcony.
Each first Tuesday of the month, explore activities relating to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEAM)!
In March, Prairie Johnson, teacher and Village Council Member at Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage in Missouri, shares her experience and knowledge as we contemplate questions like Why do we garden? What is the power that brings many hands together to tend collective soil? What is the “community” in community gardening? Tend the garden of your mind with this conversation about organic gardening, Natural Building, and why we do it all together. Learn more about Dancing Rabbit and how the community strives to bring people together while leaving a lighter footprint on the earth.
Cosponsored by Kent Environmental Council.
No registration requried. For adults 18+.
Are you an anime fan? Join us to watch anime, draw manga and eat snacks from Japan! This program is for students in grades 6-12. Registration is required and begins one week in advance. Registration required, begins Feb 27.
